Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Rockford, IL (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Rockford

Illinois
57

Akron and Rockford have a similar cost of living.

$930/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$954/mo ↑ 3%
$48,544/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$53,328/yr ↑ 10%
$111,200 ↓ 8%
Home Value
$120,900 ↑ 9%
$904/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$947/mo ↑ 5%
189,526
Population
147,649

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.75%
Sales Tax
6.25%
1.53%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Rockford, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $4,784/year higher in Rockford. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $120,900 in Rockford.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Rockford — common questions

Is Akron or Rockford cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 57 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Rockford?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Rockford it's $954/month — a difference of $24/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Rockford?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $53,328 in Rockford. Median household income is $4,784/year higher in Rockford.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Illinois?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Rockford?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Rockford has a cost index of 57 with rent of $954/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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